Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Drunk Driver Kills Grandfather and Grandson in Wrong-Way Crash on Somerset Bridge

Introduction

An unfortunate incident occurred on Christmas night when a drunk driver from New York City drove the wrong way and collided with a vehicle on a Somerset bridge, resulting in the death of a grandfather and grandson. Massachusetts State Police reported that a third individual in the vehicle is in critical condition, while the occupants of another car involved in the crash sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The Incident

The crash took place around 11:10 p.m. on the westbound side of Veterans Memorial Bridge, which is part of Route 6. Initial investigations reveal that Adam M. Gauthier, a 41-year-old New York City resident, was driving a 2023 Land Rover SUV in the eastbound direction on the westbound side of the bridge. He allegedly struck a 2014 Infiniti QX50 SUV, carrying 73-year-old Floriano Arruda and his 15-year-old grandson, Jacoby Arruda, who was seated in the rear passenger seat. Additionally, a 2019 Honda Accord was also involved in the collision.

Victims and Injuries

All six individuals involved in the crash, including Gauthier, were immediately transported to nearby hospitals. Tragically, Floriano Arruda and Jacoby Arruda succumbed to their injuries. The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office confirmed their deaths. Floriano’s wife and Jacoby’s grandmother, Donna Arruda, who was seated in the front passenger seat, suffered serious injuries and is currently in critical condition. The Arruda family resided in Seekonk, according to the Bristol DA’s office.

Legal Charges

Adam M. Gauthier has been charged with multiple offenses, including motor vehicle homicide while under the influence, manslaughter, OUI-Liquor Causing Serious Bodily Injury, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Wrong-Way Operation on a State Highway. The suspect is expected to be arraigned from his hospital bed at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, where he is receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The Bristol DA’s Office will prosecute the case.

Impact and Road Closure

Following the crash, both westbound lanes of Veterans Memorial Bridge remained closed for approximately four hours. This closure disrupted traffic in the area and caused inconvenience for commuters. The authorities worked diligently to clear the scene and reopen the bridge as soon as possible.

Investigation

The State Police-Dartmouth Barracks, State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, State Police Crime Scene Services Section, and State Police Detective Unit for Bristol County are collectively conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. They are examining the facts and circumstances surrounding the crash to determine the exact sequence of events and factors contributing to the tragedy.

Conclusion

This devastating incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the catastrophic consequences it can have on innocent lives. The loss of a grandfather and grandson has left the community mourning, while another family member fights for their life in critical condition. The legal proceedings will hold the responsible party accountable for their actions, and the investigation aims to provide answers and closure for the affected families.

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